Center: Taper MT2-MT6 (Morse Taper), Runout Tolerance ≤0.005 mm

Component Specifications

Definition

The Center is a critical rotating component mounted in the tailstock of a lathe or similar machine tool, designed to provide axial support to long workpieces during turning, facing, or drilling operations. It consists of a precisely machined conical point that engages with a center hole in the workpiece, mounted on bearings to allow rotation with minimal friction. This component ensures workpiece stability, reduces deflection, and maintains alignment between the headstock and tailstock, enabling high-precision machining of cylindrical parts.

Working Principle

The Center operates on the principle of rotational support through a tapered bearing system. When the tailstock is advanced, the conical point engages with a pre-drilled center hole in the workpiece. As the workpiece rotates driven by the headstock, the center rotates synchronously on precision bearings (typically ball or roller bearings), providing support while minimizing friction and heat generation. This allows the workpiece to maintain concentricity and reduces vibration during high-speed machining operations.

Materials

High-carbon chromium steel (AISI 52100/SUJ2) or tungsten carbide for the conical point; hardened to 58-62 HRC; bearing components made from bearing-grade steel with corrosion-resistant coatings.

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Taper	MT2-MT6 (Morse Taper)
Lubrication	Grease-packed or oil-bath systems
Maximum RPM	3000-6000 depending on bearing type
Point Angle	60° standard (75° for heavy-duty)
Bearing Type	Precision angular contact ball bearings
Load Capacity	500-2000 kg axial load
Runout Tolerance	≤0.005 mm

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards

ISO 2903, DIN 228, JIS B 6101

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Tailstock

A movable support component on a CNC lathe that provides axial support to long workpieces during machining operations.

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Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation

Bearing failure due to contamination
Overheating from insufficient lubrication
Workpiece damage from improper center alignment
Taper seizure in tailstock spindle

FMEA Triads

Trigger: Contamination from metal chips or coolant entering bearing assembly
Failure: Increased friction, overheating, bearing seizure, and catastrophic failure
Mitigation: Install protective seals or bellows, implement regular cleaning protocols, use filtered lubrication systems

Trigger: Excessive axial load beyond rated capacity
Failure: Bearing deformation, point breakage, or taper damage
Mitigation: Implement load monitoring systems, train operators on proper workpiece support techniques, use centers with appropriate load ratings

Trigger: Improper installation or taper mismatch
Failure: Poor concentricity, vibration, and accelerated wear
Mitigation: Follow standardized installation procedures, verify taper compatibility before use, implement regular inspection schedules

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance

Runout tolerance ≤0.005 mm per ISO 2903; taper accuracy within 0.0005 mm/mm

Test Method

Runout measured with dial indicator at center point; taper fit tested with blueing compound; load testing per ISO 10791-11

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.

Manufacturing capability

Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.

Inspection readiness

Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.

Supplier transparency

Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

Compare the published product scope and source details, then include your specifications and quantity in an enquiry.

Manufacturers of Center

Manufacturer profiles associated with Center.

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Compiled and source-reviewed by the CNFX editorial team. Each manufacturer above links to the page on that company's own website where the product is listed, with the date we checked it. How we source and review

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a live center and a dead center?

A live center (rotating center) contains bearings that allow it to rotate with the workpiece, reducing friction and heat. A dead center is stationary and requires lubrication between the center and workpiece, typically used for lower-speed applications.

How do I select the correct center taper size?

Select based on your lathe's tailstock taper specification (commonly MT2-MT6). Match the Morse taper number to your machine's tailstock spindle. Larger tapers provide greater rigidity for heavy-duty applications.

What maintenance does a rotating center require?

Regular cleaning to remove chips and debris, periodic lubrication according to manufacturer specifications (typically every 200-500 hours), and checking for bearing play or runout. Replace when runout exceeds 0.01 mm or bearings show signs of wear.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Preliminary Technical Classification

This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

Center